Thanks to Frances Perkins

By Deborah Hopkinson, Kristy Caldwell (Illustrator)

Witnessing tragedy, she reshapes a nation, ensuring no one is left behind.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 138 ratings

36 pages

$18.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

Frances Perkins, transformed by witnessing a devastating factory fire, becomes the first female U.S. cabinet member. As Secretary of Labor, she champions workers' rights and creates the Social Security program, reshaping American society. Can one woman's vision of protection and inclusion change the future for generations? Discover her journey and the legacy of her bold reforms.

From the publisher

How many years will it be until you turn sixty-two? What year will that be? Once you’ve read Thanks to Frances Perkins, you’ll know why these are important questions–and why you may want to thank Frances Perkins.

After Frances Perkins witnessed the Triangle Waist Factory fire in 1911, she was forever changed. While some activists pressed factory owners for change, Frances decided to work to bring about new laws that would force employers to treat people better and make workplaces safer. When she became Secretary of Labor in Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s administration―the first woman cabinet member―Frances had the opportunity to make real her bold vision of a country where no one was left out. As a result of the Social Security program that she created, we have built a society where we help one another.

Deborah Hopkinson’s energetic text and Kristy Caldwell’s appealing illustrations introduce readers to a fascinating woman who has changed many American lives. Back matter features more information about Frances Perkins, Social Security, and resources for economic education.

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